Math Placement at Bucks
You will be taking your Mathematics Placement Test using the program ALEKS.
If you are unhappy with your score, you will be given the opportunity to retake the test up to 3 more times. You will have access to the ALEKS placement test for one year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I sign up for ALEKS?
If you are interested in signing up for ALEKS, please contact the Testing Center at testing@bucks.edu. Please include your name, date of birth, and your seven-digit Bucks student ID number.
I think I already tested in ALEKS. What should I do?
If you took your placement test after May 20, 2020 using ALEKS, please visit our ALEKS Math Placement Retest page for information on what to do next.
Is there a fee for using ALEKS Assessment and the Prep Learning Module?
There is no cost for the ALEKS Assessment.
Are there Technical Requirements to ALEKS?
Students using Chromebooks or iPads to take the ALEKS assessment at home should contact the Testing Center at testing@bucks.edu for alternate instructions.
Can I retake the ALEKS Placement Assessment?
Yes, you may take up to 4 placement assessments to attempt to change your placement score. However, to make each attempt worthwhile, it is important that you spend time working in your ALEKS Prep and Learning Module in between placement assessments so that you can improve your skills. In fact, you will not be able to just retake the placement assessment. You must wait 48 hours between placement assessments, and you will have to work in the learning module for at least 5 hours before being permitted to retake the placement assessment.
Are ALEKS Placement Assessments proctored?
Yes, all assessments must be proctored*, but students can remediate at home in the Learning Modules without proctoring.
*Due to Covid, the ALEKS placement test will be taken at home using Lockdown Browser and Respondus Monitor, which uses a students' webcam and microphone to record the test session.
How long will a placement assessment take to complete?
Placement assessments are untimed. The amount of time will vary by student. Each assessment will be a maximum of 30 questions.
May I use a calculator while using ALEKS?
ALEKS will provide an on-screen calculator if you need one to complete a particular problem.
Otherwise, you may not use a calculator.
May I use any other resources during a placement assessment?
You may only use a pen or pencil, paper, and the resources provided by ALEKS. You may not receive assistance from friends, family, other websites, textbooks, or any other resource not provided by ALEKS. Using outside resources may lead to improper placement and ultimately course failure. Remember, Respondus Monitor is videotaping you.
What do I do after the first assessment?
After you complete the first assessment, please contact the Testing Center at testing@bucks.edu or visit ALEKS Math Placement Retest page for more information. Below is a conversion chart for your ALEKS score and the mathematic courses you can take.
Where can I get technical help with ALEKS?
Hours (Eastern Time):
Sunday: 4:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Monday-Thursday: 7:00 AM to 1:00 AM
Friday: 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Phone: (800) 258-2374
Email: contact at http://support.aleks.com
What Does My ALEKS Score Mean?
Your placement result is your percentage mastery on the best assessment.
Course placement is determined as follows:
|
ALEKS % |
Bucks Placement Score |
Bucks Course Placement |
|
0-13 |
1 |
MATH 090 – Prealgebra |
|
14-29 |
3 |
MATH 095 – Basic Algebra |
|
30-41 |
5 |
MATH 101 – Math Concepts MATH 102 – Math for Educators I MATH 103 – Intermediate Algebra MATH 110 – Math for Technology I |
|
42-49 |
7 |
MATH 115 – Elementary Statistics MATH 117 – Finite Mathematics for Business MATH 120 – College Algebra |
|
50-60 |
8 |
MATH 118 – Business Calculus MATH 122 – Trigonometry |
|
61-75 |
9 |
MATH 125 – Precalculus |
|
76-100 |
11 |
MATH 140 – Calculus I |